On Tuesday, April 28th, 2015 the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) Board of Education enthusiastically approved Gateway Middle School's charter renewal application, solidifying its commitment to educating students from all San Francisco communities, especially those with historically at-risk students, until its next renewal in 2020.
The renewal comes on the heels of three separate reviews conducted by SFUSD, including an examination of the Gateway Middle School curriculum, an inspection of the budget, and overall approval of the charter application. All three reviews were met with robust attendance of the Gateway community, and many members spoke in favor of the school.
"We are extremely proud of our middle school charter renewal," says Gateway Public Schools Executive Director, Sharon Olken. "In its first four years of operation, Gateway Middle School has proven to be a great option for students and families in San Francisco, and it is helping students realize their greatest dreams."
In order to continue operating, every charter school in California must be re-authorized (or renewed) every five years. Charter schools are tuition-free public schools that operate independently from local school districts. Charter schools allow teachers to innovate, give parents choices, introduce accountability, and close the achievement gap.
Gateway Middle School opened its doors in 2011 and serves approximately 300 economically, racially, ethnically, and intellectually diverse middle school students (grades 6-8). Gateway Middle School is part of Gateway Public Schools and is modeled after the success of Gateway High School, which opened in 1998. This is the first charter renewal for Gateway Middle School.
By serving as a model public school organization, Gateway Public Schools hopes to demonstrate that public education can and does work for diverse learners, share best practices, and serve as a catalyst for change within the public sphere.